Study Suggests Higher Death Risk with Heart Drug

A new study says that people suffering from an abnormal heart rhythm, also known as atrial fibrillation, may be at a greater risk of dying sooner if they have been prescribed the popular heart drug digoxin for the treatment.

According to Reuters Health, more than 4,000 people with the heart condition were analyzed in the study and more than 66 percent of them were treated with digoxin. The study was published in the European Heart Journal.

During the study period of 3.5 years, 666 people died. Among those prescribed digoxin in the previous six months, about 40 percent were more likely to die of any cause, while 60 percent were more likely to die due to an irregular heart rhythm issue, reports Reuters Health.

The researchers noted that in patients with no history of heart failure but who have atrial fibrillation, it may be not be preferable to prescribe digoxin. However, some other cardiology researchers have criticized the study saying that it does not have enough evidence to merit changing of treatment strategies.

If you or a loved one has been harmed by a dangerous drug, contact Sokolove Law today for a free legal consultation and to find out if a dangerous drug lawyer may be able to help you.

Tags: